The brigade handled more than 800 calls last night, a 20% rise on last year

London Fire Brigade (LFB) had its busiest Bonfire Night for nine years after taking 831 calls across the capital.

While firefighters responded last night (Wednesday 5th) to a similar number of firework-related calls and incidents as last year, control officers handled over 30% more calls about bonfires.

Some of the calls taken by the brigade included fireworks alight in a park in Whitechapel; a grass fire caused by an out of control bonfire in Bromley; a fire in a flat in Whitechapel, reportedly caused by fireworks; a box of fireworks alight in a park in Hackney; and a tree alight in Brixton Hill.

LFB’s assistant commissioner Thomas Goodall said: “Last night, our control officers and firefighters worked exceptionally hard, handling an extremely high number of calls and mobilising wherever we were needed across the capital.

“We’re anticipating another busy weekend of celebrations, so we’re continuing to ask Londoners to help us utilise our resources wisely. Our advice is not to host your own celebrations and instead, find an organised display nearby.

“If you are going to host your own display, it’s important to ensure you are buying safe fireworks from a reputable, licensed seller with a CE safety mark. Secure them properly in the ground, and keep them far away from buildings, trees, animals and people.

“Always follow the Fireworks Code and remember there are strict laws around when you can purchase and use fireworks. Never set them off if you’ve been drinking alcohol and once a firework is lit, never go back to it.

“Disposing of fireworks safely is just as important as using them correctly. Allow fireworks to cool properly before throwing them away.

“We’re also urging people to consider if their bonfire is necessary and to take care if you’re burning waste at home.

“If you are going to light a bonfire, never leave it unattended and consider your neighbours when you do decide to have a fire in your garden.

“Make sure you build it well clear of buildings, garden sheds, fences and hedges and never use flammable liquids to start it or burn dangerous items such as aerosol cans. Always keep a bucket of water or a hosepipe nearby in case of fire.

“Always check your local authority’s advice on bonfires and follow our safety tips.”

No news is bad news

Independent news outlets like ours – reporting for the community without rich backers – are under threat of closure, turning British towns into news deserts.

The audiences they serve know less, understand less, and can do less.

If our coverage has helped you understand our community a little bit better, please consider supporting us with a monthly, yearly or one-off donation.

Choose the news. Don’t lose the news.

Monthly direct debit

Annual direct debit

£5 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else, £10 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else and a print copy posted to them each month. £50 annual supporters get a digital copy of each month's paper before anyone else.